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Local nursing program marks growth and leadership transition after decade of public–private support
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Summary
Minnesota North Colleges representatives told the council their revived nursing program has produced 62 RN and 91 LPN graduates over the past decade, raised nearly three-quarters of $1,000,000 from local partners, and will see director Danita Edistead retire in May with Maureen Wakanabo taking over.
Representatives from Minnesota North Colleges briefed the International Falls City Council on the college’s nursing program, recounting a decade-long recovery following national accreditation changes in 2012 and describing a community-led, public–private effort to rebuild on-campus nursing education.
Brad Krasaway (presenting on behalf of the college) reviewed the program’s history, noting the shift in delivery methods that once relied heavily on remote instruction and part-time clinical faculty. He described a 2015 healthcare forum that brought local health organizations together and led to a partnership—and fundraising—that the presenters said has contributed nearly three-quarters of $1,000,000 from entities including Rainy Lake Medical Center, Essentia Health, Good Samaritan and county and state partners.
Program director Danita Edistead (speaking) provided outcomes data from the past decade: 62 RN graduates and 91 LPN graduates, with many LPNs later completing RN credentials. She said local cohorts are often full (program intake generally 10 students for clinical ratios) and estimated that 90–95% of graduates remain in the community, supporting local clinics and hospitals. Edistead also noted a statewide decline in LPN graduates in 2025 (roughly 26% down) and said the local program has become self-sustaining due to increased enrollment.
Presenters announced that Edistead will retire in May and that Maureen Wakanabo will take over as program lead; Maureen said she is honored to continue the program’s work and emphasized commitment to training nurses to meet local workforce needs.
Councilors praised the college’s efforts and noted the program’s local economic and health-care benefits; the mayor referenced a recent visit by Senator Amy Klobuchar highlighting the program. Council members offered continued partnership if the college seeks to expand programs or services in the future.
